Derry Girls fans are all saying the same thing after the sitcom's latest instalment wowed viewers with a flashback episode starring a young Ma Mary and Aunt Sarah. Fans have called for a 'spin off' series after loving the glimpse into the 70s' episode.
The unique 30-minute episode was unlike anything the coming of age sitcom had done before with show writer Lisa McGee explaining ahead of it being broadcast it was "one for the Mammies". This time the focus was on the 'original Derry Girls', as Aunt Sarah and Ma headed to their school reunion - and the surprise of the night wasn't just that the original gang used to be friends with Jenny Joyce's mum.
The sisters kept talking about the secret they'd kept from their Leavers' Night in 1977, as flashbacks showed a younger cast portraying the parents at their leaving party. Later in the episode, it was revealed the group of friends had each got a skull tattoo, given to them by Deirdre (Michelle's mum), whoch they had concealed for years.
Needless to say the episode went down a storm with viewers, who quickly took to Twitter to praise the casting of the younger versions of the Derry Girl's parents. Many have since called for a full 70s' spin-off series and hoped last night's episode was a 'pilot' for future episodes.
"I want a whole spin-off series of young Ma Mary and Aunt Sarah in the 70’s #DerryGirls" Naomi tweeted and Nicky Doherty added "@LisaMMcGee That was a ****** Brilliant episode of #DerryGirls. We need a whole spin off set in 1977. Not sure I'm ready for the series to end next week".
Simon Edens added: "I’ve seen enough so far to say: please do a 70s spin-off. This is brilliant! #DerryGirls" with Katy saying: "That episode of #DerryGirls was outstanding. Laughing and crying". Ryan posted: "Surely a spin off with the parents is in high demand? They’ve really stood out in this season, perfect chemistry between them all #DerryGirls" and Ben Poole added: "I really hope tonight’s Derry Girls ep was a pilot for a spinoff show for the grown ups. A sitcom focused on Mary, Sarah, Gerry and Joe?! WOULD WATCH #DerryGirls".
Others tweeted in awe of the casting for the episode, Sarah tweeted: "LOVED tonight’s episode of #DerryGirls I usually hate tv flashbacks but this was brilliant. Casting perfection. Also I have a major crush on Sarah" and Kate Neiland said: "It was astonishing casting. What an episode! #DerryGirls hitting all its marks. Again".
"The introduction of Rob the Canadian just to provide a 1977 version of the wee English fella is delightful. #DerryGirls" Kelly said and Gary Nolan added: "How good was the casting on #DerryGirls last night, the teenage versions of all the parents were spot on". Dave B said: "#DerryGirls This programme should be up there with the sit-com greats of the past. It is absolutely superb. A special mention should be given to whoever cast the younger versions of the women plus the actresses themselves who got the nuances and mannerisms spot on. Will be missed"
The series finale of Derry Girls airs on Tuesday, May 17, from 9pm on Channel 4 and All 4. A 60-minute special episode will be broadcast the next day from 9pm.
You can catch up on all episodes of series one to three of Derry Girls over on All 4.
